Children In Need 2017: What time does it start, who presenting and what to expect tonight

It’s a special night for television. When everyone comes together – stars, viewers, charity workers – in an effort to use television’s bountiful platform to do good.

This year’s Children in Need promises plenty of treats and surprises in the five-hour charity show that will span the likes of Strictly Come Dancing, Doctor Who, and Eastenders.

Of course, there’ll also be an opportunity to hear from those whose lives have changed thanks to funding donated over the years by Children in Need, while also reminding us of who still needs our help.

Here’s everything you need to know about 2017’s Children in Need.

What time does it start? What channel?

Children in Need will start BBC One from 7.30pm until 10pm. It will then switch to BBC Two from 10pm until 10.40pm, before returning to BBC One from 10.40pm until 12.30am. There will also be a One Show special from 7pm until 7.30pm.

Who’s presenting?

Tess Daly and Ade Adepitan will kick off the show, followed by Graham Norton and Mel Giedroyc, with Rochelle and Marvin Humes then taking over presenting duties.

What can we expect?

Highlights will include Anne Robinson returning for a very special edition of The Weakest Link, where she’ll cut down the likes of actor John Thomson, Love Island winner Kem Cetinay, and actress Chizzy Akudolu.

Six current and former Blue Peter presenters will take part in their own Strictly Come Dancing competition, with Mark Curry, Diane-Louise Jordan, Anthea Turner, Tim Vincent, Konnie Huq and Radzi Chinyanganya all competing for a special Pudsey glitterball trophy.

Some of Eastenders‘ most beloved characters will perform numbers from classic West End musicals, while there’ll be some performances from the professionals, as well: Strictly‘s Craig Revel Horwood – as well as Amber Riley from Dreamgirls, Beverley Knight from The Bodyguard and Cassidy Janson from Beautiful: The Carole King Musical.

Plus, Doctor Who will be revealing an exclusive look at the Christmas episode. That’s alongside musical performances from Rita Ora, The Vamps and Jason Derulo.

Last but not least, Joanna Lumley will present the Sir Terry Wogan Fundraiser of the Year award to people who “go above and beyond to raise money”.

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